WRCO Morning News

100.9 and 107.7 country and community in Richland Center.

Here's your Daily News Roundup.

For Civic Media News, I'm Connie Feldman.

The pack pulled it off in overtime to break their sixth game losing streak with a 2017 win over the Jets yesterday.

Despite a scary start to the game, the Packers lost two key players to injuries in back-to-back plays.

Mike Clemens has more coming up in sports.

The Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa is asking Governor Evers to declare a state disaster following last month's natural gas liquid spill in Iron County.

Civic media's Maddie Schaefer has the story.

The Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa is asking Governor Tony Evers to declare a state disaster following last month's natural gas liquid spill in Iron County.

Line 5 was shut down on August 25th after an unoccupied subcontractor truck rolled into an open excavation site near Saxon and struck the pipeline, releasing about 1.3 million gallons of natural gas liquids.

Enbridge returned the pipeline to service last weekend using a temporary bypass.

However, the Wisconsin

Department of Natural Resources had asked the company to halt construction of the bypass in a letter on September 9th, saying it did not have the required permits.

This bill happened about three miles from the Bad River Reservation.

Chairwoman Liz Arbuckle says the tribe plans to declare it as a disaster and wants the state to do the same.

There's a lot of dangers and risks to to our people.

This is our tribe treated our seated territory, right?

This is where our people have always hunted, fished, gathered, lived, and

all of that's at risk.

Enbridge says its bypass work was consistent with existing permit conditions or its application to amend a stormwater permit.

The company says it remains in contact with the DNR and that soil and water monitoring continues at the spill site.

For Civic Media News, I'm Maddie

Schaefer.

Tribal leaders have requested a meeting with Evers to discuss the spill and what action the state will take next.

Wisconsin food banks could get a big financial boost next year.

Civic media's James Kelly tells us how nonprofits can apply for a piece of the $5 million pie.

A number of food banks across the state will receive state grant funding to support their operations for 2027.

According to a press release, $5 million in funding is available through the Food Security and Wisconsin Products grant program.

It's the second year of funding through the grant program, which seeks to support nonprofits as the demand for food assistance services increases, as well as the state's agricultural industry by using that funding to purchase food from Wisconsin producers.

I'm James Kelly for Civic Media News.

Eligible nonprofits can still apply for grant funding through October 1st.

Madison police are a step closer to equipping officers with body cameras after years of delay.

Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway's proposed 2027 capital budget includes more than $400,000 to fund the initial purchase of equipment for the force.

Chief John Patterson told Channel 3000 News the technology will boost transparency, noting that Madison has been one of the few departments nationwide without body cams.

The proposal follows a successful 90-day pilot program in the North District that proved the benefits of recording officers' interactions.

Maybe it's the return of the giant horse collar Kilbasa that tipped the scales, landing Labo Field in the top three for best concessions in the NFL.

That's according to an analysis of fan feedback by sports betting platform Winna.

The Packers' upcoming opponent, the Falcons, came in at number one with their fan first pricing rather than food quality, likely pushing them into the top according to analysts.

You can still get a $2 hot dog at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The Bayer Stadium fair, however, didn't fare so well in the study, coming in at fourth to last in the concessions competition.

And that's your state news update.

I'm Connie Feldman for Civic Media News.

Packers win despite penalties.

Hi, I'm Mike Clemens with sports.

The Packers beat the Jets 20 to 17 in a game where the referee is called 27 penalties 14 on the Packers like unsportsmanlike conduct a defensive back Javon Bollard

Matt O'Fleur, you know bull gets caught for a tonning anything directed towards a player from another team Even though that was his former teammate the officials don't know what you're saying

the Jets blew a 17 to 7 lead head coach Aaron Glenn

You know, when you feel like you was right there in the thick of it, and then you didn't overcome and you let the other team overcome.

That's something that's tough.

The Packers will host the O and two Falcons this Thursday night.

College football, the Badgers face Penn State next after beating Eastern Michigan 54 to 10.

Yeah, I think our mentality of the game was to let it loose, you know, let it fly and Alino's blocking great and, you know, receivers Tyrell over here is making great plays down the field.

That's Badgers quarterback Colton Joseph with sports.

Mike Clemens.

Mostly cloudy with a few scattered showers as we head into the afternoon and are high today in the upper 50s to near 60 tonight.

Scattered showers with a low in the low to mid 40s tomorrow.

Mostly sunny with a high right around 65.

I'm meteorologist Sean Cable.

That's your news roundup for Richland Center from WRCE and WRCO.

Find more news anytime at wrco.com and wrce.fm.

Subscribe to this podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you find your podcasts.

Monday's Roundup.

Brought to you by Chets, Feed, Seed and Such, Richland Hospital, Cardinal Glass CG, and by New Tech Carts.

It's joke day with Phil and Hank, so brace yourself.

These jokes aren't just corny, they're full-on field-tested.

If you're groaning, laughing, or questioning your life choices, you're doing it right.

It's Monday's Roundup.

Making Mondays just a little less Monday-y.

It's time for the

roundup!

Hey!

Good morning, Hank.

How you doing, young man?

Not too bad.

You've been working on your tone, I see.

Not still not

good?

What'd you do with the money?

Not body

tone, either.

What money?

Oh well.

What money?

Oh, the money that your dad gave you for singing lessons.

Oh, good

one.

And we're off

and running.

You're off

and running.

Anyway, how was your weekend, young man?

It was good.

Good.

Spent

some time at Ithaca, you know, for the fair and it was, it rained at times, but it persevered and everything went on.

I was here about one, about 12, 30, 12, 40, and it came down.

I mean, down hard.

And I think it did at Ithaca too.

I mean, it poured.

I was going, Oh my goodness.

What, you know, I was going poor fill.

Game time cleared up.

I actually kind of got a little break in the clouds.

Almost had the sun.

Yes.

Yeah.

So good for them.

Yeah.

Good

day

overall.

And it was a gloomy day yesterday.

It was a nice day.

And then today's going to be a little bit on the dreary side again.

But we've had enough rain,

but I'll never push rain away.

So, you know, it's wet.

Yeah.

Round up to around five inches in some areas.

So someone told me, someone told me eight inches in basketball.

I didn't get that much, but I tell you what,

I got a lot of rain though.

Yes.

And that was just Friday night

alone

because we got more on

Saturday.

But anyway, did you mow over the weekend?

No, it's getting to the point now or starting to kind of get on the downhill side.

Really?

Yeah, I think so.

I mowed.

Did

you?

Yeah,

I

don't know

if

it's going

to be the

last time or not, but I mowed.

Mine would have been too wet because my bottom is muddy.

Oh, yeah.

I fell down.

I mean,

I'm not going

to say

anything else at

this point.

What do

you do?

You knew where I was

going with that.

What

do you do?

Well, I

kind of set you

up.

I set you up

too.

Yeah, the Packers won.

Yes, they did.

Barely.

Ugly, but that's... Again, I don't... I think it's Jordan Love.

I think we had a quarterback.

Are you serious?

Yeah, I do.

I don't know where you get that.

I really don't.

I just,

cause not a fan.

He's, he's the least of their worries right now.

The penalties are

the least.

Isn't that

horrible?

And their offensive line.

And they're one, one time they had 129 yards total offense compared to 123 yards of penalties.

Right.

Horrible.

But maybe it's a sign of things to come because, because they did, I mean, that's how they've lost pretty much six games has given up the lead in the fourth quarter.

And that's what they did to the Jets.

So we'll see.

Jets good

football team though.

Yeah, they are.

And if they had a better quarterback, they'd been dangerous.

Sure.

Cause never been a fan of Gino Smith either.

Yeah.

Well, what do you do, man?

You just don't like anybody,

right?

Yeah.

You know, I'm, you know, I'm trying to find a college to root for, because Arkansas don't have a football team.

Right.

But no, Jordan Love, I think is doing, I mean, his stats would back me up.

I think.

Did you see the shot that Christian Watson took over the middle in these ribcage?

Yeah, I

did.

Players go out and back to back plays.

Oh no, that's sad.

Yep.

So I don't want anybody to get hurt.

No, nobody.

Absolutely.

Nobody hurt.

Anyway, uh, your question of the day, Phillip, do you still take bubble baths?

No, you don't.

June won't buy me Mr. Bubbles.

Mr. Bubbles.

You know what?

I'll get you some Mr. Bubbles.

Really?

Yep.

They still make Mr. Bubbles?

I don't know.

Huh.

I will find out.

We'll

find

out.

Yeah.

Yeah.

I like baths though.

You do like baths.

In the wintertime especially.

The warm up.

When my poor old cold booms, especially after a, well even in the spring.

Oh yeah.

Sit out there for two hours

at a

35 degree wind.

Yeah, exactly.

Here's

the pitch.

That's a strike.

No, that was my teeth.

It wasn't a foul ball.

That's when the bath feels good.

I'm not a big bath guy.

I'm

not.

Oh, you might be from Peerage, Phillip.

If you move to another state so you can buy beer on Sundays.

Oh boy.

You can in Arkansas or you can't?

I'm sure you can now.

Okay.

In Missouri, um, you could buy beer, but it was less alcohol.

Oh, that's right.

When I was younger.

Yeah.

I think Indiana is you can on Sunday.

Oh yeah.

Yeah.

So can you buy beer in Wisconsin on Sundays?

Yes.

Okay.

Sure.

I'm good then.

Pretty much any time.

Yeah, I'm good.

So Phil, we had, you know, I, I cleaned over the weekend.

Yeah.

So, but someone broke into our toy closet and stole the limbo stick.

Oh no.

Seriously, who could go that low?

I don't know.

How low can they go?

I'm telling

you.

It's really

sad.

I just realized the countertop is made of marble.

Yeah.

I've been taking it for granted

all

week.

It's tough.

Yeah.

Used to be a farmer, Phil.

My last crop of corn was not good at all.

Really?

I remember feeding my family.

We ate a half acre of corn for supper.

Boy, at times are tough.

At times are tough.

We

better take a break

and see what's going

on here.

Courtesy of our sponsor, Chets Feed Seed and Such.

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Well, we'll see how our guest lecturers are doing today.

Well,

the fine guy from Volca.

Yeah, let's see what he... Blue

River.

Oh, Blue River.

Blue

River.

Bacon and eggs walk into a bar.

Bartender says, sorry, we don't serve breakfast.

Okay.

Yeah.

Well,

yeah, I got it.

I got it.

Yeah.

I just making sure.

Did you get it?

I didn't get any, I didn't get any bacon and

eggs.

No, I know it.

Absolutely.

Who's up next here for, I guess, lectures?

Is that Barber's son?

The Barber's kid?

Okay.

Phil Knee, he went out for football over there at Ithaca High School.

He sure did.

In fact, one time Seneca voted him player of the game.

That's probably true.

It was against Seneca when Fred Dylan said,

we gotta get him out

of there or they're gonna kill him.

They were using me to clean their cleats.

That

was pretty good Joe.

It was a true story.

There was a little truth to it too.

Phil they say unhappiness is a relative manner.

Really?

I'm ill minded.

A

relative matter.

Yes,

a

family joke.

There it is.

So Hank, you have three months to spend two million dollars and you get nothing in return.

Okay.

How do you do it?

I don't know.

Run for political office.

Speaking of 500,000 trees sacrificed their life.

Did you know this?

Sacrifice their life for these

adds and stuff that you get the flyers.

Yeah.

I just don't even take time to read them.

It's sad.

You can work on your paper airplanes.

My girlfriend just bought her 12th pair of false teeth.

Really?

Yeah.

Lynn said, good heavens.

Does she lose them or break them?

I said, neither.

She wears them out.

Some of the chew

on.

Chew the

fat.

Yes.

My girlfriends on a, on one diet or another every week.

Oh,

really?

It looks like she's been on several at once.

Oh, is that right?

And that's why.

That's why, yes.

Boo.

Boo.

The fellow says to me, my son Luke loves that we named our children after Star Wars characters.

Oh, really?

By daughter Chewbacca, not so much.

Hell!

You know, you got a tough, tough family.

I'd tell you

what.

Hi, little Chebacca.

How are you

doing?

My doctor called me Friday and said, Henry, your check came back.

We had to send your check back.

Insufficient funds?

Yeah.

Oh, I gave them.

I said, well, we're even.

I said, so did my symptoms.

Oh, boy.

Tough.

Your

symptoms came back.

Yeah, that's too

bad.

So did the check.

We're even.

You just don't have that bounce in your.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, check those.

All right.

Uh, my good friend, tire, kick and Lynn are good friends over the weekend.

I was tire, kick and Lynn.

He's all right.

He took me to his, uh, secret fishing spot.

Yeah.

He goes, you like my secret fishing spot.

And I said, yeah, I said, the fish don't even know about it.

That's pretty secret.

Very, very secretive.

A man walks into a bar with a newt on his shoulder, a newt, the bartender.

says what's, uh, that's an interesting pet.

Uh, what's his name?

And the man says tiny.

The bartender says, what an odd name.

Why do you call him tiny?

Because he's my newt.

Oh

my goodness.

Well, I got one to beat that.

I researched, I, I read a research study, Phillip, this morning that claims ketchup and mustard are the worst condiments for our health.

They are.

Um,

And the research was completed at the Mayo Clinic.

It's tough, Phil.

It's all right.

Tough joke.

My daughter just passed her driving test and offered to pick me up as I was having, as I was out having drinks with friends on the way home.

I asked, can we stop at McDonald's?

My daughter replied, been waiting this to say this for many years.

Nope, we have food at home.

Yes, how does that go?

Yes,

it's tough.

Oh, well, Phil.

Julie says

that all the time.

Does she?

We can go get something.

No, we've got food at home.

He throws leftovers up.

Phil, how old is Allbrand?

Allbrand?

Yeah, I'm looking for some roughage.

Some rough age, rough age, rough age, brand, Allbrand.

I should have led with that one.

Here's an announcement.

Yeah, I finally stopped caring what other people think.

Really?

Yeah.

I hope everyone's okay with that.

Was that the kicker?

No.

All right.

Is it safe to eat lettuce again or should I just stick with the hostess cupcakes?

Just wanting to know.

Well, I don't know.

I would go with the hostess cupcakes.

I was tempted.

I saw him yesterday when I went by, you know, in the Swiss cake rolls.

I

know I still haven't bought lettuce since that thing.

Haven't you?

No, still scared.

I think you buy it in the head.

You're all right for sure.

Right?

Buy something in the head, you know?

Yeah.

Anyway, here's your kicker.

Are you ready?

All right.

A church was going door to door selling Bibles to raise money for the building fund.

A 77-year-old member with a really bad stuttering problem insisted on helping.

Some of the other church members thought it would hurt their sales, but they agreed to let him help anyway.

By the end of the week, the old stuttering man had sold more Bibles than all of them combined.

Really?

When asked how we did it, the man replied, I just asked they wanted to buy a Bible or they want me to read to them.

That's about all

we have today.

My folder is empty.

You gotta go in search of more jokes this week, right?

It's tough finding

jokes right now.

Yeah, courtesy of Chet's feed.

Are you anywhere tonight?

Chet's

chuckle.

Chet's chuckle.

I am at home.

You're at home.

What are you going to do?

Or does June have a list?

I think, I think she has a list, but I might be hanging out with, uh, with Everett Everett Hank.

Yeah.

Well, no Everett James, but you know,

We've

named him Hank.

You can call him that if you want.

Little Hank.

Yeah, exactly.

Anyway, my friend, I hope everyone out there have a great day and be kind.

Sounds good.

Good evening everyone, for WRCO News, I'm Todd Compernall.

The Richland Center General Government Committee will convene for its regular meeting Tuesday at 5.30 p.m.

in the council room at the municipal building located at 450 South Main Street.

Following routine business, including the approval of the July 28 meeting minutes, review and approval of bills, department reports from administration, economic development, zoning and legal, and a budget versus actual review.

The committee will evaluate several key action items.

Major topics on the agenda include a review of title search results and next steps for the property at 929 West Seminary Street.

Additionally, members will consider options and annual costs for the 2027 Emergency Medical Services Provider, as well as a Connect Communities Grant application and a request for municipal accounting and bookkeeping services.

The Richland County Executive and Finance Standing Committee will convene Wednesday at 5 p.m.

in the Richland County Boardroom of the Courthouse in Richland Center.

Key items on the committee's agenda include updates regarding the 765 kilovolt transmission line, reports from the county administrator and county board chair, and discussion and possible action concerning the 2027 county budget.

The following evening, the Richland County Board of Supervisors will hold its meeting on Thursday at 6 p.m.

in the County Boardroom at the same courthouse location.

The Board will address the 2027 County budget and consider approval for the Sheriff's Office to apply for and accept a Public Safety Answering Point grant from the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs Office of Emergency Communications for 2027.

The Grant County Sheriff's Office is conducting a death investigation following a shooting incident in the township of Smelzer, located just south of Cuba City.

At approximately 1.28 p.m.

Saturday, the Grant County Dispatch Center received a 911 call, reporting two individuals with gunshot wounds outside a residence near a vehicle.

Upon arriving at the scene, law enforcement officers located a male and a female on the ground.

The female was pronounced deceased at the scene.

First aid was rendered to the male who was initially transported to Southwest Health Center in Platteville and subsequently transferred by ambulance to a hospital in Madison where he later died as a result of his injuries.

Investigators alongside the Grant County Coroner's Office are actively continuing their investigation into the incident.

Sheriff Craig Rukoff confirmed that both individuals were familiar with each other and that officials believe this was an isolated incident with no ongoing threat to the public.

Identifying information is being withheld at this time.

Authorities noted that no additional information will be released while the investigation remains ongoing.

The Father McKevitt Knights of Columbus Council 3492 has proudly honored Charles Chuck Brewer as its 2026 Night of the Year.

Since joining the council in 1980, Chuck has modeled selfless leadership, steadfast faith and tireless service to his parish and community.

A regular usher at St.

Mary's Church, he is widely recognized as a quiet, humble knight who works diligently behind the scenes without seeking recognition or fanfare, yet can always be relied upon whenever a helping hand is needed.

Throughout his four decades of involvement, Chuck's dependable presence has been a cornerstone of the council's local charitable efforts.

Whether volunteering at the community's favorite food stands during wheels of time and the four seasons of fun, serving pizza at the fairgrounds or preparing and serving pancake breakfast, Chuck has continuously donated his time and effort to support the night's fundraising initiatives.

Among his many contributions, Chuck's defining achievement remains his 13-year tenure directing the Richland Center Bingo program.

Recognizing the need to modernize the event, Chuck completely overhauled and redesigned how Bingo was operated in the community.

Working alongside his daughters, Angie and Sarah, he implemented the computer software system still utilized today, introduced paper bingo sheets, and created progressive bingo games.

He also carefully restructured the payout mathematics to ensure long-term viability and success.

Thanks to Chuck's vision and dedication,

Bingo survived and thrived in Richland Center, preserving a vital project that empowers Council 3492 to give back generously to the surrounding community.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice in partnership with a multi-state coalition has reached a $694 million settlement in cash and debt relief with Credit Acceptance Corporation, one of the nation's largest auto finance companies.

The agreement resolves allegations that CAC knowingly approved subprime loans that consumers could not afford and failed to prevent deceptive add-on sales practices by auto dealers.

As part of the settlement, Wisconsin will receive an estimated $218,319 while Wisconsin consumers will receive approximately $959,988 in restitution and more than $10 million in debt relief.

According to the multi-state coalition, CAC originated loans assigned low internal proprietary scores that indicated borrowers were unlikely to repay even the principal amount.

The settlement also addresses claims that CAC incentivized and permitted networked dealers to aggressively pack contracts with unwanted vehicle service contracts and guaranteed asset protection or GAP insurance without clear consumer knowledge or by implying that financing dependent on purchasing these add-ons.

Nationwide, the agreement provides $60 million in cash restitution directed toward consumers who

received particularly risky loans between November 1st, 2015 and November 30th, 2025.

In addition, CAC will provide $388 million in debt relief to borrowers whose vehicles were repossessed and $246 million in debt relief to borrowers whose cars have not been repossessed, allowing them to keep their vehicles.

an additional $15 million will be paid directly to the coalition states.

The Grant County Sheriff's Office responded to two separate vehicular incidents Sunday, September 20th, including a two-vehicle collision on Highway 81 and a semi-drunk rollover involving a waste bill on County Highway 0.

The first crash occurred at approximately 12.14 p.m.

on Highway 81 just north of DeBure Lane in Smelzer Township.

According to authorities, Jamie Barascaria, 49 of Platteville, was stopped in a

to make a left turn into a driveway with her left turn signal activated.

A 2005 Honda Accord driven southbound by Lucas Janssen, 22 of Benton, approached from behind.

Janssen stated he was distracted by his radio.

He did not see that the other vehicle was stopped.

Despite attempting to swerve, Janssen's vehicle struck the rear of Badastaria's car.

While Badaskaria was uninjured, two juvenile passengers in her vehicle were transported to Southwest Health Center in Platteville for suspected minor injuries.

Jansen was trapped in his vehicle and required extrication before being transported to Southwest Health Center for non-life-threatening injuries.

Both vehicles sustained heavy damage and were towed from the scene.

Later that afternoon, at approximately 1.37 p.m., authorities received a report of a semi-truck crash on County Highway O just east of Beagle Lane in Harrison Township.

Colton Rikers, 21 of Darlington, was driving a 2020 Peterbilt semi truck hauling a tanker trailer of way westbound when the vehicle drifted off the road onto the soft northern shoulder.

Rikers was unable to correct the vehicle which struck a culvert and overturned onto its passenger side.

Rikers exited the vehicle uninjured due to a waste bill resulting from the crash.

Notification was made to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

A portion of County Highway O was closed for a couple of hours while the truck and trailer were removed.

U.S.

Senator Tammy Baldwin has called on Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins and the VA Office of the Inspector General to launch immediate investigations into alarming allegations of patient neglect, abuse, and severe staffing shortages at the Tomah VA Medical Center.

The senator's action follows reports from frontline Tomah VA employees describing widespread lapses in patient care.

Staff reported that critical understaffing and management issues have contributed to patient falls.

pressure injuries, food choking incidents, missed patient checks and delays in medication delivery.

The disclosures highlighted particularly troubling conditions within the hospice care unit where terminally ill veterans faced delays in obtaining necessary end-of-life medication.

The demands for scrutiny follow criminal charges brought against the former Toma VA nurse who allegedly intentionally withheld oxygen from a veteran receiving hospice care,

leading to the patient's death.

Senator Baldwin requested a full accounting from the VA regarding its response to the incident, including when leadership learned of the alleged abuse and what corrective steps were implemented.

In her communication to Secretary Collins, Senator Baldwin urged immediate action from the Veterans Health Administration and Veterans Integrated Service Network.

to evaluate staffing, provider vacancies, and leadership practices independent of local facility leadership.

Baldwin also called for explicit protections for whistleblowers insisting on zero tolerance for retaliation against employees who report unsafe conditions.

Refinement and accountability Baldwin noted are essential to maintain trust and protect the safety and dignity of veterans receiving care.

And finally today, I have two new winners to announce in the St.

Anthony's Raffle.

They are on ticket 381, Gary Smith, and on ticket 103, David Bauer, both $50 winners.

Congratulations to both of them.

Vital statistics right after this.

Today is September 21st.

These are today's vital statistics.

Mary E. Ciss Degenhardt-Govier, 94 of Fenimore, died Monday, September 14th at Dove Healthcare in Fenimore.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m.

today at the Larson Family Funeral Home in Fenimore with burial to follow in the Prairie Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m.

until the time of service at the funeral home.

In lieu of plants and flowers, a memorial fund is being established in her memory.

Following the committal service at the cemetery, the family invites you to join them for a celebration of life with food and fellowship at the Cottonwood Sports Bar and Supper Club.

Mary E. Siss Degenhart-Govier, 94 of Fenimore.

Deatris Coleman, 89 of Richland Center and Muscaday died September 12 in Racine.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 12 noon at the Blue River Valley Church with burial to follow in the Blue River Valley Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Tuesday at the church from 10 a.m.

until the time of service at noon.

The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family.

For Deatris Coleman, 89 of Richland Center and Muscaday, and this morning I have a text, there will be

an update we will have at the news at noon.

The funeral there is being moved from the church to Pratt funeral and cremation service in Richland Center.

I'll have details at noon on that from Mark Jelenick.

Marion Buzz Beatty, 94 of Richland Center died at the Richland Hospital Thursday, September 17th after a fall at his home.

A public celebration of life will be held at the Richland Center American Legion Thursday, September 24th from 3 p.m.

until 7 p.m.

Everyone is encouraged to wear their favorite team apparel.

A private family burial will precede the celebration.

The Stafford Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Marianne Buzz Beatty, 94 of Richland Center.

David Daniel Higbee, 65 of Richland Center, died Wednesday, September 16th.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 30th at 3 p.m.

at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Richland Center Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 30th from 1 p.m.

until the time of service at 3 at the Pratt Memorial Chapel.

David Daniel Higbee, 65.

of Richland Center.

Christine M.B.

58 of Richland Center died at home Friday, September 18th.

A celebration of Christine's life will be held Saturday, November 7th, from 12.30 p.m.

until 3.30 p.m.

at the Richland Center Community Center.

Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangement.

Christine M.B.

58.

of Richland Center.

Bradley Sandmire, 83 of Milwaukee, formerly of Richland Center, died Saturday, September 5th.

Grad services will be held Wednesday, September 23rd at 12 noon at the Ash Ridge Cemetery.

The Pratt Funeral Interimation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.

Bradley Sandmire, 83 of Milwaukee, formerly of Richland Center,

Good morning, everyone.

For WRCO News, I'm Todd Copernall.

53 degrees definitely feels like fall out there right now under cloudy skies and Richland Center forecast as today's high 62 degrees, which is 10 degrees below the average high temperature for today's state.

In the news, the Partners for Prevention Coalition invites community members

to attend its upcoming meeting today at 1 p.m.

The meeting will take place in the fourth floor conference room at the Richland Hospital with a virtual attendance option available via Microsoft Teams.

Community involvement is strongly encouraged as the coalition works to broaden local engagement and support health and safety initiatives across Richland County led by drug-free and community health coordinator Sam McEvec.

The meeting will feature several important updates and discussion topics.

Attendees will review the coalition's revised bylaws, discuss the fiscal agent transfer scheduled for October 1, and review the overall meeting schedule.

An overview of the Year 8 Action Plan will also be presented highlighting key strategic goals.

For the coming year, a major focus of the meeting will center on membership growth and leadership recruitment.

The coalition is actively seeking new sector representatives for the parent sector, as well as the civic and volunteers sector.

In addition, recruitment is open for executive team leadership positions, specifically for president and vice president.

Community members interested in joining the alcohol, tobacco and THC workgroup are also invited to participate.

Senator Sarah Kieske and the Wisconsin State Senate are calling on local high school juniors and seniors to apply for the upcoming Senate Scholar Program, an intensive week-long educational experience hosted in Madison.

Designed to challenge some of the state's top students, the program selects one participant from each of Wisconsin's 33 Senate districts to gain hands-on experience with state government and the legislative process.

The program features an advanced government curriculum combining classroom instruction, round table discussions, and practical simulations.

During the first half of the week, students learn directly from experts about research, constituent relations, and bill drafting.

They also participate in discussions with legislative staff, media representatives, and lobbyists to explore all facets of policymaking.

In the second half of the week, participants put their training to work,

by staffing the Senate floor during a live legislative session.

Working as a cohort, the scholars draft bills form mock committees, elect leadership, and host a formal committee hearing featuring public testimony on Friday.

To ensure a safe and engaging experience, participants reside at the Concourse Hotel in downtown Madison with full-time supervision from the program director, complete with organized evening activities.

Senator Kieske expressed enthusiasm for local involvement.

encouraging area schools and students to take advantage of this unique opportunity to represent Senate District 14.

Applications must be submitted by November 6.

Interested students need to complete a request for sponsorship form for their Senator.

Digital application materials and program details are accessible at senatescholar.com.

Average gasoline prices in Wisconsin have risen 34.2 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $4.43 per gallon today, according to GasBuddy's survey of 3,112 stations in Wisconsin.

Prices in Wisconsin are 49.7 cents per gallon higher than one month ago.

and stay in $1.55 per gallon higher than a year ago.

The national average price of diesel has increased 30.7 cents compared to a week ago and stands at $6.49 per gallon.

According to gas buddy price reports, the cheapest station in Wisconsin was priced at $3.79 yesterday, while the most expensive was $5.39.

The lowest price in the state yesterday at $3.79.

leaving a gap of $1.60 between least expensive and most expensive.

The national average price of gasoline has risen 18.5 cents per gallon in the last week.

The national average is up 34.4 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands $1.30 higher than one year ago.

Community members are invited to make a difference and help save lives by participating in the upcoming Impact Life Blood Drive.

Thursday, October 1st.

The event will take place from 10 a.m.

until 3 p.m.

at Pippin Hall, located on the lower level of the Richland Hospital and Clinics.

Momentum for local donation efforts continues to grow across the region.

During the previous drive in August, 33 community members stepped forward to donate, including nine individuals giving blood to impact life for the first time.

This steady support is crucial as impact life

serves as the sole supplier of blood products for the Richland Hospital and clinics.

Donated blood plays an essential role in caring for patients facing emergency procedures, traumatic injuries, surgical operations, and ongoing chronic conditions.

According to Jake Hicks, Account Manager with Impact Life, volunteer blood donors provide vital support for friends, neighbors, and coworkers across the local community.

Both experienced and first-time donors are strongly encouraged to schedule an appointment,

Appointments can be reserved online at login.bloodcenter.org or by calling 800-747-5401.

Walk-in donors are also welcome throughout the drive.

In addition to supporting local health care needs, repeat donors can participate in Impact Life's rewards program to redeem points for gift cards, merchandise, or charitable.

contributions.

Hospital staff deeply appreciate the community's dedication to keeping blood supplies well stocked.

Ashley Klingerman, RN in the emergency department, expressed gratitude for the ongoing community support and noted how impactful it is for health care workers to see full donation stations.

Local residents are encouraged to mark their calendars for October 1st and contribute to this vital community effort.

Wisconsin State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly has announced the initial phase of the Department of Public Instruction's biennial budget request, seeking $28 million in new state funding.

The proposed allocation is aimed at strengthening critical education services and supporting key agency operations across the state, including specialized support for deaf-blind youth, public library investments, technology modernization,

cyber security and educator misconduct investigations.

A primary highlight of the budget request includes half a million dollars to strengthen outreach consultation, training and family support for children who are deafblind statewide.

This investment comes after the U.S.

Department of Education terminated grant funding for the Wisconsin Deaf Blind Technical Assistance Project last September.

Although DPI secured a grant to maintain operations, state funding is required to provide long-term sustained support.

The proposal also designates $7.5 million over the biennium for Wisconsin's public library systems.

This funding will help maintain state aid at or above 8% of prior year expenditures, while sustaining existing service levels for contracts, BadgerLink, and Newsline for the blind.

And in local news, this one's for my Aunt Jelaine Brewer out there.

Uncle Chuck has made us proud.

The father, McKevitt Knights of Columbus Council 3492 has proudly honored Charles Chuck Brewer as its 2026 Night of the Year.

Since joining the council in 1980, Chuck has modeled selfless leadership, steadfast faith and tireless service to his parish and community.

A regular usher at St.

Mary's Church, he is widely recognized as a quiet, humble knight who works diligently behind the scenes without seeking recognition or fanfare, yet can always be relied upon whenever a helping hand is needed.

Throughout his four decades of involvement, Chuck's dependable presence has been a cornerstone of the council's local charitable efforts.

Whether volunteering at the community's favorite food stands during wheels of time in the four seasons of fun,

Serving pizza at the fairgrounds were preparing and serving pancake breakfast.

Chuck has continuously donated his time and effort to support the Knight's fundraising initiative.

Among his many contributions, Chuck's defining achievement remains his 13-year tenure directing the Richland Center Bingo program.

Recognizing the need to modernize the event, Chuck completely overhauled and redesigned how Bingo was operated in the community.

Working alongside his daughters, Angie and Sarah, he implemented the computer software system still utilized today, introduced paper bingo sheets, and created progressive bingo games.

He also carefully restructured the payout mathematics to ensure long-term viability and success.

Thanks to Chuck's vision and dedication, Bingo survived and thrived in Richlund Center, preserving a vital project that empowers Council 3492 to give back generously to the surrounding community.

Congratulations, Uncle Chuck Brewer.

Vital statistics right after this.

Today's vital statistics are sponsored by Krause Monument.

Krause Monument Company designs and produces granite headstones, gravestones, grave markers, monuments, and memorials.

Deatris Coleman, 89 of Richland Center and Muscaday, died Saturday, September 12th in Racine.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, September 22nd at 12 noon at the Pratt Funeral Home in Muscaday with burial to follow in the Blue River Valley Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Tuesday at the Pratt Funeral Home in Muscaday from 10 a.m.

until the time of service at noon.

The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.

D is survived by her son Dennis Barrett, daughter Wanda and Bob Chalklin, daughter-in-law Deb Barrett, daughter, stepdaughter Karen and Cliff Schneider, stepson Joe Coleman, six grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, deatress Coleman, 89 of Richland Center and Muscaday.

Marion Buzz Beatty, 94 of Richland Center, died at the Richland Hospital Thursday after a fall at his home.

A public celebration of life will be held at the Richland Center American Legion on Thursday, September 24th, from 3 p.m.

until 7 p.m.

Everyone is encouraged to wear their favorite team apparel.

A private family burial will precede the celebration.

The Stafford Funeral Home is assisting the family.

with the arrangements.

David, Daniel, Higbee, 65 of Richland Center died Wednesday.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 30th at 3 p.m.

at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Richland Center Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 30th from 1 p.m.

until the time of service at 3 p.m.

at the Pratt Memorial Chapel.

Dave Higbee is survived by two children, Daniel Higbee and Angela and Ryan Larson.

Four step children, Karina Fish, John Butler, Rod and Lauren Harris and Simon and Kristen Harris.

12 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, brother Gary and Becky Higbee.

Several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, David Daniel Higbee.

65 of Richland Center.

Christine M. B.

58 of Richland Center died at home Friday, September 18th.

A celebration of Christine's life will be held Saturday, November 7th from 12.30 p.m.

until 3.30 p.m.

at the Richland Center Community Center.

Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

Christine is survived by her companion Rob B.

Her two sons, Ryan and Jelisa B. and Brandon B., one grandson.

Christine is also survived by her mother, Patty Pat Kraska, siblings Jason and Summer Rowe, Alisa Rowe, and Chad Kraska.

Christine M. B., 58th of Richland Center.

Bradley Sandmire, 83 of Milwaukee, formerly of Richland Center, died Saturday, September 5th.

Graveside services will be held Wednesday, September 23rd at 12 noon at the Ash Ridge Cemetery.

The Pratt Funeral Encrymation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.

Brad is survived by his children, Jeff and Wendy Sandmire and Debbie and Tad Zettelmire.

five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, many other relatives and friends.

Bradley Sandmeier, 83 of Milwaukee, formerly of Richland Center.

Welcome back to the News at Noon.

The Richland County Executive and Finance Standing Committee will convene Wednesday at 5 p.m.

in the Richland County Boardroom of the Courthouse in Richland Center.

Key items on the committee's agenda include updates regarding the 765 kilovolt transmission line, reports from the County Administrator and County Board Chair, and discussion and possible action concerning the 2027 county budget.

The following evening, the Richland County Board of Supervisors

will hold its meeting on Thursday at 6 p.m.

in the county boardroom at the same courthouse location.

The board will address the 2027 county budget and consider approval for the Sheriff's Office to apply for and accept a Public Safety Answering Point grant from the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs Office of Emergency Communications for 2027.

Average gasoline prices in Wisconsin have risen 34.2 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $4.43 today according to GasBuddy's survey of 3,112 stations in Wisconsin.

Prices in Wisconsin are 49.7 cents per gallon higher than a month ago and stand $1.55 per gallon higher than a year ago.

The national average price of diesel has also increased 30.7 cents compared to a week ago and stands at $6.49 per gallon.

The national average price of gasoline has risen 18.5 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $4.44 today.

The national average is up 34.4 cents from one month ago and $1.30 higher than a year ago, according to GasBuddy data compiled from over 150,000 gas stations around the country.

Average gasoline prices rose in virtually every state over the last week, with 45 states seeing increases of more than $0.03 per gallon led by the Great Lakes region, where refinery issues sent Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, and Wisconsin all up more than $0.30 per gallon, said Patrick Dahan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy.

Diesel rose in every state, with five states seeing increases exceeding $0.50

per gallon as continued strikes on Russian oil refineries tighten global diesel supply, a pressure further amplified in the Great Lakes by regional refinery issues.

Any broader directional change will depend heavily on overseas developments and with fresh U.S.-Iran escalations, the outlook remains deeply uncertain.

The Grant County Sheriff's Office is conducting a death investigation following a shooting incident in the township of Smelser located just south of Cuba City.

At approximately 1.28 p.m.

Saturday, the Grant County Dispatch Center received a 911 call, reporting two individuals with gunshot wounds outside a residence near a vehicle.

Upon arriving at the scene, law enforcement officers located a male and a female on the ground.

The female was pronounced deceased at the scene.

First aid was rendered to the male who was initially transported to Southwest Health Center in Platteville and subsequently transferred by ambulance to a hospital in Madison where he later passed away as a result of his injuries.

Investigators alongside the Grant County Coroner's office are actively continuing their investigation into the incident.

Sheriff Craig Rukoff confirmed that both individuals were familiar with each other

and that officials believe this was an isolated incident with no ongoing threat to the public.

Identifying information is being withheld at this time, pending notification of the family.

Authorities noted that no additional information will be released as long as the investigation remains ongoing.

The Father McKevitt Knights of Columbus Council 3492 has proudly honored Charles Chuck Brewer as its 2026 Night of the Year since joining the council in 1980.

Chuck has modeled selfless leadership.

steadfast faith, and tireless service to his parish and community.

A regular usher at St.

Mary's Church, he is widely recognized as a quiet, humble knight who works diligently behind the scenes without seeking recognition or fanfare, yet can always be relied upon whenever a helping hand is needed.

Throughout his four decades of involvement, Chuck's dependable presence has been a cornerstone of the council's local charitable efforts.

Whether volunteering at the community's favorite food stands during wheels of time and the four seasons of fun, serving pizza at the fairgrounds or preparing and serving pancake breakfast, Chuck has continuously donated his time and effort to support the night's fundraising initiatives.

Among his many contributions, Chuck's defining achievement remains his 13-year tenure directing the Richland Center Bingo program.

Recognizing the need to modernize the event, Chuck completely overhauled and redesigned how Bingo was operated in the community.

Working alongside his daughters, Angie and Sarah, he implemented the computer software system still utilized today.

Introduced paper bingo sheets and created progressive bingo games.

He also carefully restructured the payout mathematics to ensure long-term viability and success.

Thanks to Chuck's vision and dedication, Bingo survived and thrived in Richland Center, preserving a vital project that empowers Council 3492 to give back generously to the surrounding community.

Congratulations, Uncle Chuck Brewer.

Senator Sarah Kieske and the Wisconsin State Senate are calling on local high school juniors and seniors to apply for the upcoming Senate Scholar Program, an intensive week-long educational experience hosted in Madison.

Designed to challenge some of the state's top students, the program selects one participant from each of Wisconsin's 33 Senate districts to gain hands-on experience with state government and the legislative process.

The program features an advanced government curriculum, combining classroom instruction, roundtable discussions, and practical simulations.

During the first half of the week, students learn directly from experts about research, constituent relations, and bill drafting.

They also participate in discussions with legislative staff, media representatives, and lobbyists to explore all facets of policymaking.

In the second half of the week, participants put their training to work by staffing the Senate floor during a live legislative session.

Working as a cohort, the scholars draft bills form mock committees, elect leadership, and host a formal committee hearing featuring public testimony on Friday.

To ensure a safe and engaging experience, participants reside at the Concourse Hotel in downtown Madison with full-time supervision from the program director, complete with organized evening activities.

Senator Kieske expressed enthusiasm for local involvement, encouraging area schools and students to take advantage of this unique opportunity to represent Senate District 14.

Applications must be submitted by November 6.

Interested students need to complete a request for sponsorship form for their senator.

Digital application materials and program details are accessible at senatescholar.com.

For further inquiries, contact Dr. Tammy Worley at 608-261-0533.

Community members are invited to make a difference and help save lives by participating in the upcoming Impact Life Blood Drive on Thursday, October 1st.

The event will take place from 10 a.m.

until 3 p.m.

in Pippin Hall, located in the lower level of the Richland Hospital and Clinics.

Momentum for local donation efforts continues to grow across the region.

During the previous drive in August, 33 community members stepped forward to donate, including nine individuals giving blood to impact life for the first time.

This steady support is crucial as impact life serves as the sole supplier of blood products for the Richland Hospital and clinics.

Donated blood plays an essential role in caring for patients facing emergency procedures, traumatic injuries, surgical operations, and ongoing chronic conditions.

According to Jake Hicks, account manager with Impact Life, volunteer blood donors provide vital support for friends, neighbors, and coworkers across the local community.

Both experienced and first-time donors are strongly encouraged to schedule an appointment.

Appointments can be reserved online at bloodcenter.org.

747-5401.

Walk-in donors are also welcome throughout the drive.

In addition to supporting local health care needs, repeat donors can participate in Impact Life's Rewards Program to redeem points for gift cards, merchandise, or charitable contributions.

Hospital staff deeply appreciate the community's dedication to keeping blood supplies well stocked.

Ashley Klingerman, RN and the Emergency Department expressed gratitude for the ongoing community support and noted how impactful it is for health care workers to see full donation stations.

Local residents are encouraged to mark their calendars for October 1st and contribute to this vital community effort.

United States Senator Tammy Baldwin has called on Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins and the VA Office of the Inspector General to launch immediate investigations into alarming allegations of patient neglect, abuse, and severe staffing shortages at the Tomah VA Medical Center.

The senator's action follows reports from front lines home of VA employees describing widespread lapses in patient care.

Staff reported the critical understaffing and management issues have contributed to patient falls, pressure injuries, food choking incidents, missed patient checks and delays in medication delivery.

The disclosures highlighted particularly troubling conditions within the hospice care unit were terminally ill veterans faced delays in obtaining necessary end-of-life medication.

The demands for scrutiny follow criminal charges brought against a former TOMA VA nurse who allegedly intentionally withheld oxygen from a veteran receiving hospice care, leading to the patient's death.

Senator Baldwin requested a full accounting from the VA regarding its response to the incident, including when leadership learned of the alleged abuse and what corrective steps were implemented.

In her communication to Secretary Collins, Senator Baldwin urged immediate action from the Veterans Health Administration and Veterans Integrated Service Network to evaluate staffing, provider vacancies, and leadership practices independent of local facility leadership.

Baldwin also called for explicit protections for whistleblowers, insisting on zero tolerance for retaliation against employees who report unsafe conditions.

Refinement and accountability Baldwin noted are essential to maintain trust and protect the safety and dignity of veterans receiving care.

The United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development has announced an investment of $800,000 aimed at advancing value-added agricultural projects throughout Wisconsin.

Distributed through the USDA's Value-Added Producer Grants Program, this funding supports local producers as they develop new revenue opportunities, expand customer bases, and strengthen regional economies.

Wisconsin State Director Andrew C. Iverson emphasized the significant role local producers play in driving agricultural innovation across the state.

He noted that Wisconsin producers are engaged in creative endeavors ranging from converting maple syrup into natural energy products to repurposing worm castings as organic soil amendments and expanding the production of pasteurized meats and specialty seeds.

According to Iverson, these investments demonstrate how USDA Rural Development helps rural producers establish new commercial pathways, create and retain jobs, and enhance consumer access to high-quality local goods.

The funding spans four major grant recipients across the state.

In East Troy, GW Organics LLC received a $200,000 grant to expand the marketing, sales and distribution of pasteurized beef and poultry,

into new geographic regions.

The company expects to add 1,118 new customers, increase revenues by nearly $350,000, and save two jobs.

Meanwhile, New Berlin-based Lush Farms LLC will utilize its $200,000 award to scale up the harvesting and distribution of worm castings as a natural soil amendment, projecting more than $850,000 in additional revenue

nine new customers and the creation of one new position.

In Soldiers Grove, Driftless Seed Company, LLC, was awarded $200,000 to support the processing, marketing, and market expansion of regionally adapted organic vegetable, flower, and prairie seeds.

The project anticipated to create four jobs.

Finally, B&E's Trees.

in Verroqua received $200,000 to broaden the reach of its maple syrup energy beverage pouches, targeting nearly 7,700 new customers.

An increase in revenue of $446,000, the creation of two jobs.

and the preservation of two existing jobs.

The value-added producer grants program is designed to assist agricultural producers in generating new products from raw commodities, extending market access and increasing producer income.

The Grant County Sheriff's Office responded to two separate vehicular incidents on Sunday, including a two-vehicle collision on Highway 81 and a semi-truck rollover involving a way spill on County Highway 0.

The first crash occurred at approximately 12.14 p.m.

on Highway 81 just north of DeBure Lake in Smser Township, according to authorities Jamie Badaskareva.

49 of Platteville was stopped in a 2020 Hyundai waiting to make a left turn into a driveway with her left turn signal activated.

A 2005 Honda Accord driven southbound by Lucas Janssen, 22 of Benton approached from behind.

Janssen stated he was distracted by his radio and did not see that the other vehicle was stopped.

Despite attempting to swerve, Janssen's vehicle struck the rear of Badaskaria's car.

While Bodice Korea was on injured, two juvenile passengers in her vehicle were transported to Southwest Health Care in Platteville for suspected minor injuries.

Janssen was trapped in his vehicle and required extrication before being transported to Southwest Health Center for non-life-threatening injuries.

Both vehicles sustained heavy damage and were towed.

from the scene.

Later that afternoon at approximately 137, authorities received a report of a semi-truck crash on County Highway O just east of Beagle Lane in Harrison Township.

Colton Rikers, 21 of Darlington, was driving a 2020 Peterbilt semi-truck hauling a tanker trailer of way westbound when the vehicle drifted off the road onto the soft northern shoulder.

Rikers was unable to correct the vehicle, which struck a culvert and overturned onto its passenger side.

Rikers exited the vehicle uninjured.

Due to a waste bill resulting from the crash, notification was made to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

A portion of County Highway O was closed for a couple of hours, while the truck and trailer were removed.

The Senate Agriculture Committee marked a major

Milestone Thursday in advancing the Agricultural Act of 2026 out of committee on a 12 to 11 party line vote, the advancement of the bill triggers a conference committee between the Senate's version and the House version, which passed in April.

The next step will be the selection of conference committee members for both the House and Senate.

The Grant County Holiday Project is preparing to begin distributing holiday gifts on December 2nd to support local families and individuals in need this season.

Community members are invited to contribute through a variety of donations, including new warm children's clothing, pajamas in all sizes, disposable diapers, blankets, sheets, wrapping paper and monetary donations to purchase food cards.

The majority of toys distributed through the project are provided by the

for Tod's program based in Dubuque.

Monetary donations may be mailed to the Grant County Holiday Project, 235 West Elm Street and Lancaster.

For physical donations, Allegiant Oil is hosting two drop-off sites starting November 1.

Donations can be dropped off Monday through Friday from 6 a.m.

to 6 p.m.

at Allegiant Oil in Platteville or Monday through Friday 7 a.m.

to 6 p.m.

in Lancaster.

Applicants can use the new online portal at grantcountyholidayproject.org.

from any mobile or internet connected device.

General eligibility requires households to have children under 18 living in the home, or individuals who are age 65 or older, or those determined, disabled, and receiving government benefits.

In addition, providing an act of kindness to others is required for eligibility.

The U.S.

Department of Agriculture has unveiled a comprehensive strategic strategy aimed at broadening global market access for domestic bioenergy producers following a historic surge in international sales.

Dubbed the American Biofuels Trade Outlook, the initiative focuses on reducing regulatory barriers and creating new export pathways to sustain growth for American agricultural producers.

The release of the strategy follows a record-setting operational year in 2025, during which U.S.

ethanol exports reached 2.2 billion gallons, generating an estimated $4.7 billion in trade value.

Federal officials attributed the surge in international demand to strong agricultural production, expanding global energy partnerships and targeted trade policies designed to support domestic renewable fuel sectors.

According to USDA leadership, the new roadmap prioritizes expanding global ethanol blending mandates and integrating biofuel provisions into future bilateral trade agreements.

By locking in long-term access across foreign markets, agricultural authorities aim to maintain strong commodity demand, boost rural economic development, and solidify the nation's position as a premier global supplier of renewable energy.

A joint team of approximately 15 Wisconsin National Guard soldiers, airmen, and Wisconsin Emergency Management personnel, alongside representatives from other government and non-governmental organizations, conducted a comprehensive disaster relief training exercise in Lay Papa New Guinea from August 11th to the 14th.

The four-day event trained nearly 90 service members from the Papua New Guinea Defense Force and local civilian volunteers in essential humanitarian aid and emergency response procedures.

Sponsored by the Center for Excellence in Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance, the exercise was supported by personnel from the U.S.

Coast Guard and U.S.

Army Pacific Command.

The exercise builds upon the formal partnership established in 2020 between Wisconsin and Papua New Guinea under the National Guard's state partnership program aimed at strengthening regional security, leadership development, engineering, and disaster response throughout the Indo-Pacific.

The curriculum combined classroom instruction, practical hands-on application, and a culminating exercise.

Medical training led by Major Heather Herbst, commander of the Wisconsin National Guard's 135th Medical Company, focused on CPR, choking management, and the March treatment protocol for trauma care.